Very widespread, crystalline silica is an important component of materials commonly used in the construction industry, namely sand, concrete and brick. Its prolonged inhalation at high concentrations can cause a lung disease called silicosis. This substance is also known to be carcinogenic when inhaled in the workplace, and deaths are associated with it. The construction … Continue reading
Abstract Mental health problems are increasing in companies. And even if we know better how to prevent them, little is being done to facilitate the return to work of affected people. A reduction in the symptoms associated with these disorders has no impact on a return to work, as indicated by recent studies. This tends … Continue reading
Having safety with-it-ness means we actively look for transition situations, knowing that there is added danger in these times. Continue reading
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Total Worker Health™ (TWH™) Program this week published an article emphasizing the link between employer support for work and family balance and the reduction of safety health risks, recognizing employees’ need for quality and flexible childcare, particularly during the summer months. The article is published within TWH™ in Action!, an … Continue reading
Dr. Kevin Kelloway, the Canada Research Chair in Occupational Health Psychology at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia explains what positive psychology is and how it relates to workplace stress. Released: June 22, 2012 File Size: 15.7 MB Length: 16:09 min Visit CCOHS to download/listen
Each year, the last day of February is reserved for International Strain Injury (RSI) Awareness Day, a day dedicated to RSI education and prevention. February 29, 2012 will mark the 13th Annual RSI Awareness Day. “Repetitive strain injuries are a serious occupational health concern across the world and are recognized as leading causes of significant human … Continue reading
There are new Occupational Health and Safety Regulation amendments approved by WorkSafeBC Board of Directors that take effect February 1, 2012. These changes will impact Safety Programs, and safe work procedures. Some include amendments to: Part 6, Substance-Specific Requirements – Asbestos-containing material definition (from 1% to 0.5%) Part 9, Confined Spaces – new requirements for … Continue reading
CALGARY — A contractor who was excavating a site for a luxury condominium complex says he had advised the site superintendent of safety concerns because of large cracks in a 30-metre-high wall at the side of the pit. Mark Bates, who owned On-Track Excavating, said he told the superintendent, Nick Papa, about the crack he … Continue reading
Richmond, B.C. — WorkSafeBC has released a report on its investigation into the workplace incident in which three workers died and two others were seriously injured at a mushroom composting facility in Langley, B.C., on September 5, 2008. “This was a tragic loss of life and would have been entirely preventable had the employer complied … Continue reading